Now admittedly, although our inspiration for this action was indeed a calling of the heart, I for one, was curious to know if Scripture holds true, and if we would actually receive more than we gave away. It's an interesting thought--no where else in the Bible does God suggest you test him (see Malachi 3:10)--and I was curious to know if the great return I'd heard of was going to come in the form of warm fuzzies and good feelings, or if it just might be a little more tangible. (I wouldn't say I was expecting to win the lottery or come into a windfall, but I felt our chances might be a little better if we were generous givers to begin with.)
We knew it wouldn't be easy, and both agreed we would stick to our commitment regardless of how difficult it might get. (Seriously, we both acknowledged that we were shaking in our boots about the decision--there really wasn't any wiggle room in our tight budget before, so how would we find ways to cover all our expenses if our income was so significantly decreased each month?) In honor of the One who granted us the talents and abilities we have to earn our living (and quite honestly, to support us in our goal and ensure we don't spend the money elsewhere first), we decided then to take our tithing out in cash the same day we get paid, and offer it to the Lord the very next Sunday.
I am very excited to say that Raleigh and I have honored our commitment, and have been tithing since we agreed we would. And although there are many MANY weeks where the extra money in our pocket would be helpful (this week is definitely one of them), we have noticed SO much more abundance of wealth in our world. And as time goes on, although the giving doesn't hit our bottom line with any less impact, it does get easier to know that we will be taken care of regardless of what that bottom line is.
Here are some of the benefits we've experienced since tithing . . .
Unexpected opportunities (new jobs, cars, experiences, etc.), new friends, more time together and with family and friends, surprise bonuses/credits to debt accounts, still having money left at the end of the month to do we want to do (not sure how this works out since we aren't making much more or are paying much less in expenses than the year before, but we're still coming out on top!), random acts of kindness from friends and strangers alike, increased reciprocal love and support (and some not so reciprocal, but rather are just pure GIFTS), and on and on and on . . . there are so many times Raleigh and I have looked at each other after receiving another surprise "return" and said, "This tithing thing is pretty cool! God is great!"
We've also been able to practice and increase our:
TRUST--That the Lord will provide. Always.
FAITH--True belief that the abundance will remain, even after we decrease our share. No need for scarcity thinking/acting; there is more than enough for all of us.
COMMITMENT--Even in tough times (when the alternative would be much easier), we can hold true to our word and make a difference.
JOY--His blessings really are magnified and our hearts are open to receiving more of His goodness.
So, there you have it; we we are believers! In many ways it is in giving that we receive the most . . .
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
~2 Corinthians 9:6-8
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